Grande Rivière is a surf spot located on the north coast, roughly a 40-minute drive from Sans Souci. This bay and river mouth offer a unique setting, protected from the trade winds and swells. It's a location that can get crowded when the waves are good, especially since it doesn’t fire up often, making it a go-to spot when other nearby areas are maxed out.
The surf at Grande Rivière is mostly suitable for intermediate surfers. It works best with a northeast swell and can handle wave sizes starting at 2 feet (0.6 meters). The main break happens over uneven reef, with left waves being the primary direction. The ideal wind comes from the south, and the surf can be enjoyed at low, mid, and high tides. While you might find some nice peaks over the rocks on the eastern side, it tends to be smaller compared to the adjacent beachbreak, which often sees bigger waves. If you're looking for bigger swells, consider Matelot, which has a good reef break.
Keep in mind that since Grande Rivière only breaks on rare occasions, you might be sharing the lineup with plenty of other surfers when it does. It’s important to check the conditions before you head out, and be prepared to wait for those optimal wave days.